How far away from the scene should you park an ambulance?

Answer 1

Following an ambulance without its lights should be done like any other vehicle, a car length for every 10 mph. If the lights are on, 50 yards is a good distance to stay back. Emergency vehicles can and do make erratic lane changes and starts and stops.

Answer 2

Park to allow easy access to the patient and in a way that prevents the ambulance from being blocked by structures or other vehicles.

If the ambulance is the first on scene for a motor vehicle accident, park 50 feet behind the collision to provide protection for the crew. If a police or fire vehicle is already on scene it should be parked behind the accident and the ambulance should be parked 100 feet in front of the scene.

If there is any leaking fluids, fumes, or a fire, the ambulance should be parked at least 100 feet away regardless.

And in the case of a hazardous materials incident, the ambulance should be parked up wind following DOT emergency response guidebook guidelines.

All from my paramedic textbook: Paramedic Practice Today Above and Beyond, volume 2.

Answer 3

150 feet